BY ISSAH OLEGOR
Ghana’s U-15 girls’ football team, the Black Damsels, has made a remarkable achievement by securing a spot in the final of the CAF African Schools Football Championship.
The team, led by coach Joyce Boatey-Agyei, defeated defending champions South Africa 3-2 in a thrilling semifinal match played at the University of Ghana Stadium on Friday, April 25.
The Black Damsels got off to a flying start when Hajara Adam’s cross found the head of Jennifer Awuku, who scored the opening goal.
This was Awuku’s third goal in the competition, having scored twice in the group stage.
However, South Africa quickly responded through Lisakhanya Situlweni, who beat the Ghanaian defense and shot past goalkeeper Zulaiha Sulemana to level the score at 1-1 at halftime.
Ghana Takes the Lead
In the second half, Hajara Adam restored Ghana’s lead with a stunning long-range effort from a free kick. Rahama Azimpaga Mohammed further extended Ghana’s lead to 3-1, giving the team a comfortable cushion.
However, the Black Damsels suffered a scare in the final minutes when a mix-up at the back led to an own goal, reducing the lead to 3-2.
Holding Nerves
Despite the pressure from South Africa, the Ghanaian girls held their nerves and saw out the threats to secure a dramatic 3-2 win.
This victory marks a historic moment for Ghana, as the Black Damsels make their maiden appearance in the final of the CAF African Schools Football Championship.
Final Showdown
Ghana will now face Uganda in the final of the tournament after the latter beat Morocco in the other semifinal game. The Black Damsels will be looking to bring home the coveted title, and their performance so far has generated a lot of excitement among football fans in Ghana.
